Levy '100%' behind Jol - Sport in brief - Evening Standard
       

Levy '100%' behind Jol

Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy has given his 100% backing to boss Martin Jol and has suggested finishing outside the top four of the Barclays Premier League will not necessarily result in the sack.

In a chaotic week at Spurs, Jol has appeared on the brink after news of a meeting between club officials and Sevilla coach Juande Ramos emerged from Spain. A subsequent meeting between Jol and board resulted in the Dutchman being given lukewarm backing from Levy after an 'assessment' of the club's performance.

But the chairman has now issued a statement, saying : "Martin has my 100% support and I'd like the fans to understand that they need to take the last few days in the context of what we think has been significant progress over the last six years."

Despite some previous opposition, Jol remains a fans' favourite while it has been Levy's timing which has been questioned.

Statements after this week's meeting suggested that ambition was at the centre of discussions and Jol admitted pressure was now on him to deliver.

"We both want success and Martin has assured me that I've got his 100% commitment and I've given it to him," Levy added.

The last week has cast severe doubts over the confidence of the board in Jol, but the Dutchman also has the opportunity to increase his popularity among his squad and fans if he delivers a top-four finish or a cup. If Jol does not lead the club to the Champions League he will not necessarily lose his job, according to Levy.

He added: "What Martin has said and what I have said is that we need to aim to be in the top four. I very much hope that we will be there and he believes he has got the squad, but obviously there can be no guarantees."

Levy's statement also suggests Jol is safe for the immediate future, with Manchester United the next opponents, on Sunday at Old Trafford.

"Firstly, no change would be made on the basis of two or three results and I have every confidence that no change will be required and Martin will continue to bring us success," he said.

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